The sun shines brightly overhead, and the tantalizing aroma of grilled chicken wafts through the air. Picture juicy pieces of Memorial Day Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken sizzling on the grill while the laughter of friends fills your backyard. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that transforms an ordinary day into a feast filled with joy and deliciousness.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a sunny day outside, this lemon herb chicken will steal the show! I remember the first time I made it for my family—everyone declared it the best thing to hit our grill since we bravely attempted to roast marshmallows without catching them on fire. Get ready for an unforgettable flavor explosion that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delightful dish is easy to prepare while delivering an explosion of flavors.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning at any gathering.
- Perfectly versatile, you can serve it at barbecues or casual dinners alike.
- Plus, it’s simple enough to whip up on a whim.
I still chuckle thinking about how my cousin tried to flip the chicken with his bare hands instead of using tongs—let’s just say that was a memorable moment!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Approximately 3-4 breasts work well; adjust based on how many guests you’re entertaining.
- Fresh Lemons: Use juicy lemons for zesting and squeezing; their bright flavor is essential in this dish.
- Fresh Herbs (Parsley, Thyme, Oregano): Opt for fresh herbs whenever possible as they enhance the flavor significantly.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic adds depth; use more if you’re like me and can’t get enough garlic!
- Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil brings richness to the marinade; don’t skimp here!
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors in your dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine freshly squeezed lemon juice with minced garlic and chopped herbs. The aroma will have you dreaming of summer!
Add Olive Oil & Seasoning: Pour in olive oil while whisking until combined. Season generously with salt and pepper—don’t be shy!
Marinate Your Chicken: Place your chicken breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over them, making sure they are well coated. Let them soak up those flavors for at least 30 minutes.
Heat Up That Grill!: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F). You want that perfect sear that locks in moisture.
Grill Time!: Remove the chicken from the marinade (discard leftover marinade) and place on the hot grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
Let It Rest Before Serving!: Once done, remove from the grill and let rest for about 5-10 minutes before slicing. This step keeps your chicken juicy—trust me!
Now you have a stunning plate of Memorial Day Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken ready to impress! Just imagine your friends’ faces when they taste this masterpiece; it’s worth every minute spent grilling.
As you serve this dish at your next gathering or enjoy it during a quiet evening at home, remember—it’s not just food; it’s memories in the making! Enjoy every bite while basking in all the compliments coming your way!
You Must Know
- This amazing Greek chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve juicy grilled lemon herb chicken, marinate the chicken for at least one hour. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat before placing the chicken on, ensuring a perfect sear that locks in flavor.
Add Your Touch
Consider adding fresh herbs like basil or rosemary for an aromatic twist. You can swap lemon juice with lime for a zesty variation, creating a unique flavor profile that suits your taste buds.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover grilled lemon herb chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the microwave or on a skillet over low heat to maintain its juicy texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Invest in a good meat thermometer to ensure perfectly cooked chicken every time.
- Avoid overcrowding the grill; this ensures even cooking and prevents steaming.
- Let the chicken rest after grilling to keep it juicy and flavorful.
There was that one memorable Memorial Day when I served this dish, and everyone couldn’t stop raving about it! They even asked for my “secret recipe,” and I had to admit it was just my trusty marinade!
FAQ
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinate your chicken for at least one hour, but overnight gives even better flavor infusion.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, just ensure to fully thaw the chicken before marinating for optimal flavor absorption.
What sides pair well with grilled lemon herb chicken?
Consider serving it with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread to complement the flavors wonderfully.
Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken
Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken is the perfect addition to your Memorial Day festivities. This juicy, zesty dish is easy to prepare and will leave your guests asking for more.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Total Time: 44 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 2 large fresh lemons (juiced and zested)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme (chopped)
- 2 tablespoons fresh oregano (chopped)
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together lemon juice, zest, garlic, parsley, thyme, oregano, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Place chicken breasts in a resealable bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (375°F). Remove chicken from marinade and discard leftover marinade.
- Grill chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Let rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider adding basil or rosemary.
- Swap lemon juice with lime juice for a refreshing twist.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to four days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (approximately 6 oz)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 70 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 34 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
